PHE makes the case for embedding preconception care into existing services

Public Health England (PHE) has published a suite of resources which can help in planning and preparation for pregnancy to improve outcomes for mothers and babies. The resources also make the case for contraception and inter-pregnancy care as integral part of preconception care.

The resources set out new thinking on preconception care to support commissioners and providers in aligning work in their local area towards a focus on preconception. It aims to help local areas embed preconception care into existing services and raise awareness of preconception care across the health system. It includes:

Making the case for preconception care: A report and summary document for Local Maternity Systems and their wider systems partners
This report highlights the impact of preconception health and ways to improve birth outcomes and reduce inequalities through embedding preconception care.

Health of women before and during pregnancy toolkit: A national report on risk factors and inequalities.
This report can be used at a local level to identify variation in women’s health, before and in the early stages of a pregnancy.

A preconception animation
It shows how to provide preconception care with a person-centred approach and how to identify opportunities for intervention. It also provides key messages.

You can access these resources here.